If You Owned One of These 12 Cars in the 80s, You Were Considered Cool

The 80s was an era of transformation, characterized by eclectic fashion, the birth of iconic music genres, and the rise of some truly remarkable cars. Owning one of these rides back in the day was a sure sign that you had style, taste, and a sense of adventure. Here are twelve of the coolest cars from the 80s, each with an intriguing detail.

DeLorean DMC-12

Thanks to its starring role in the “Back to the Future” trilogy, the DeLorean DMC-12 became a cultural icon. Its distinctive gull-wing doors and stainless steel body made it instantly recognizable. The car’s designer, John DeLorean, was a former General Motors executive who wanted to create the ultimate sports car.

Ferrari Testarossa

The Testarossa’s name translates to “redhead” in Italian, referring to the car’s red-painted cam covers. It was also one of the few Ferraris to feature the “flat-12” engine, adding to its unique allure. The car’s wide rear track and bold side strakes were designed to improve stability and cooling.

Lamborghini Countach

The Countach’s radical wedge shape and scissor doors set a new standard for supercar design. Its name comes from a Piedmontese dialect word meaning “wow” or “astonishment,” perfectly capturing its impact. The car’s design was so influential that it remained in production for over 16 years with only minor updates.

Porsche 911 Turbo (930)

This beastly car was known for its “widowmaker” nickname due to its turbocharged engine’s sudden power surge, which could be challenging to handle. Despite this, it was a favorite among thrill-seekers. The 911 Turbo was also one of the first production cars to feature a rear spoiler, which helped improve stability at high speeds.

BMW E30 M3

The E30 M3 was built for homologation purposes to compete in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) racing series. Its boxy design and high-revving engine made it an instant classic. The car’s fender flares and aerodynamic body kit were designed to accommodate wider wheels and tires for improved handling.

Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

The IROC-Z was named after the International Race of Champions, a series in which identical cars were driven by the world’s top drivers. This model featured advanced suspension and performance features, making it a street racer favorite. The car’s Tuned Port Injection (TPI) system provided better throttle response and fuel efficiency.

Ford Mustang GT (Fox Body)

The Fox Body Mustang (1979-1993) became a platform for endless customization. Its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine options made it a hit among drag racers and car enthusiasts. The car’s simple, clean lines and removable roof options added to its appeal.

Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The Trans Am gained massive popularity thanks to its appearance in the TV show “Knight Rider,” where it starred as KITT, a super-intelligent, talking car. It was also known for its distinctive “screaming chicken” hood decal. The car’s T-top roof design allowed for an open-air driving experience.

Toyota Supra (A70)

The third-generation Supra (A70) introduced a twin-turbo engine option that set a new performance benchmark for Japanese sports cars. Its impressive power and reliability made it a favorite among tuners. The car’s electronically adjustable suspension provided a smooth ride and responsive handling.

Nissan 300ZX (Z31)

The Nissan 300ZX featured a sleek, aerodynamic design and was one of the first cars to utilize a digital dashboard. The Z31 model was also offered with a turbocharged engine, which boosted its performance and appeal among sports car enthusiasts.

Mazda RX-7 (FC)

The second-generation Mazda RX-7 (FC) was inspired by the Porsche 944 and featured a rotary engine, which was unique to Mazda. The RX-7’s lightweight construction and excellent handling made it a favorite on both the street and the track.

Audi Quattro

The Audi Quattro revolutionized the rally racing world with its all-wheel-drive system. This technology gave it a significant advantage on various terrains, leading to numerous rally championships. Its boxy design and flared fenders made it a standout on the road as well.

Final Thoughts

Owning one of these cars in the 80s wasn’t just about driving; it was about making a statement. These iconic vehicles continue to hold a special place in automotive history, reminding us of a time when bold design and daring performance ruled the roads.